Zabaleta To Face Stoke

23 Jan 2013 00:54:15

Manchester City have been boosted by the news that Pablo Zabaleta should be fit to face Stoke in the FA Cup on Saturday.

The Argentina international suffered a foot injury in the 2-0 win over Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday and was forced to limp off but he is confident of being available for the trip to the Potteries.

City's other first-team right-back Micah Richards is still recovering from knee surgery, so the inclusion of Zabaleta in his squad would be a boost to City manager Roberto Mancini.

"I took a kick on the top of my foot which caused me a lot of pain afterwards and that's the reason it was better that I came off," Zabaleta told the club's official website.

"It looks better today, but there is a little discomfort when I walk or run so it is a bit sore and needs to settle down a little.

"Thankfully, the scan showed there was no serious damage. I should be fine for Saturday but it will be a couple of days before it is 100 per cent again.

"I did some bike work on Monday morning and on Tuesday I will try some running so I'm sure I will be available for the game against Stoke."